Tag Archives: custom monitors

64 Audio Custom Model Overview

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These demo models come in a universal shell, but they will give you a good idea of what the custom version will sound like.

A2e

Starting off at the bottom you have a simple dual driver model, but don’t let the driver count fool you. If you want a more mid-forward sound with ample bass and treble the A2e are a great starting point. They have good impact down low, mainly focussed on the mid-bass punch. The midrange is very detailed and clean, and the highs are well presented but lack the air and effortless extension of the tia equipped models.

Separation is really impressive on the A2e and accuracy when it comes to stereo imaging is also excellent. These are a great, slightly mid centric monitor that will give you plenty of tuning flexibility on stage. Headroom and dynamics are compromised a little over the more expensive options, but in their own right the A2e are a great performer.

 

A3e

Coming from the A2e you immediately notice more resolution and extension up top with a more natural tone. The A2e is a little mid forward whereas the A3e is perhaps a little more reference like in their tuning, with a more neutral sound signature. This is a very good 3 driver model when it comes to soundstage width and layering.

The lows have enough impact and extension to keep most people happy, whilst the midrange is clean and well separated with excellent layering. The highs are very well placed with good energy and extension, along with great tonality all round. A great entry level monitor for those looking for a more neutral sound signature.

 

A4t

This is the model where the tia driver starts coming in, steering away from the slightly more neutral A2e and A3e, the A4t offer up a meatier low end and slightly fuller bodied midrange. There is a little more focus on the sub-bass offering up a solid foundation for the mid-bass kick, along with a slightly fuller midrange. The midrange is however well detailed and not masked but the increase in the low end.

The tia driver used for the highs give these a more airy and spacious sound with a more rounded sound stage in terms of width and height compared to the more width oriented A3e. The A4t offer up a slightly fuller sound signature, that is a little more fun, but doesn’t compromise on the technical side.

A6t

The A6t offer up a very smooth, coherent and well-balanced sound with perhaps a little added body for added protection against fatigue. They have a very full yet linear bass response digging deep into the sub-bass without faltering, the midrange is a tad warmer than neutral but still allows you to easily hear all the layers of the recording. Up top they have excellent separation and extension, there is no harsh peak in the upper midrange and these are extremely pleasant to listen to.

A favourite for musicians, the A6t is a great go-to monitor, with a well-balanced but not strictly neutral sound. Many prefer this model with the M15 module as it brings out a little added air and aids separation. This is one model you can easily tune to your liking with EQ if you wish.

 

N8

This one is tuned for the bassists out there, with a dynamic driver for the low end it offers more headroom down low than the other models in the line-up. The lows are articulate and hard hitting with a really natural tonality to them. They are tuned to be quite prominent in the mix, but if you are using these in a professional setting it allows you to cut if needed. This is much better than trying to boost lows which can introduce clipping. With all that bass, the midrange still managed to cut through with good authority and quite a pleasant tonality.

Again, the tia driver here really does define the treble, with the signature extension and air. To most, the N8 will be a little too bass oriented, but for those that need the headroom, and also the tonality of a dynamic driver, the N8 does a superb job at allowing you to hear and feel the low frequencies.

 

For the A12t and A18t you can refer to the Universal Model guide here, as those 2 models are the only ones available in a custom and universal shell.

 

 

What are custom in-ear monitors?

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What are custom in-ear monitors?

Essentially custom in-ear monitors are, as the title suggests, custom made earphones that are moulded to the shape of your ear. Everyone’s ears are different, and to really achieve the most comfortable fit, along with the best isolation, you have to go down the custom route.

 

Where to start?

So, you are thinking about going down the custom route, first up is the usual research and reading of reviews to shortlist some potential models. The custom industry has grown massively in the last few years, and they are no longer reserved for touring musicians, and there are easily as many audiophile models as there are pro-audio models now.

 

A few of the main brands are:

  • 64 Audio
  • JH Audio
  • Ultimate Ears
  • Empire Ears
  • Cosmic Ears
  • Custom Art

 

Once you have shortlisted some, it is worth looking to see if anywhere near you has demo models you can go and try out. As once you have the custom version, you won’t be able to return them.

 

Next you will need to get some ear impressions done, this is one of the most important parts of the process, due to this we would advise you spend a little more and get them done by someone who is highly qualified in taking ear impressions for musicians. Alternatively most brands will have a list of recommended audiologists, the process is not painful, but it is a bit odd if you have never had it done before.

 

First, they will check your ear canals are clean enough to take the impressions, and then they will insert a foam stopper past the 2nd bend of your ear canal. Then a 2-part silicone mixture is mixed and inserted into a syringe. You are usually given a bite block to take an open mouth impression (recommended for custom monitors) and the mixture is then injected into your ear and fully filling the outer part too. The silicone takes about 5-10 minutes to cure, then the impression will be removed and you are done.

 

 

Now you have your impressions, it’s time to design your monitors (or vice versa)

 

To be fair, you can order your monitors and then get ear impressions, either way the end result is the same. It is however best to send the impressions sooner rather than later as they do change if kept in storage, reducing the likelihood of getting a good fit the first time round.

 

You can go on to most manufacturers websites and design your monitors with their online design tools, these are great fun to use and the number of options varies depending on the brand. A lot of them also allow you to upload artwork if you want a specific logo on them. Take your time and make sure you pick a design you love. There are companies like Custom Art that are happy to surprise you if you don’t know what design to go for, they do some incredible pieces.

 

 

Now the wait…..

 

Your customs arrive, you are keen to try them out, but wait, how do they fit in?

 

Most brands include a leaflet to help you, but there is a technique to inserting custom monitors, you have to twist them in until they lock into place. Here is a great guide on the fitment of Custom monitors: https://theheadphonelist.com/custom-in-ear-monitors-fit-guide/

 

Now you have your own unique earphones that with some care will last you years and give you excellent sound quality, along with increased isolation and comfort when compared to universal models. Happy listening!